The Boxing Day tradition returns to the Championship with a full programme of eleven matches that could prove decisive in the title race, the playoff battle, and the fight against relegation.
Coventry's commanding lead put to the test
Coventry City travel to Swansea City looking to extend their remarkable ten-point advantage at the summit. Frank Lampard's side have been utterly dominant, scoring 50 goals in just 18 matches - a figure that embarrasses most top-flight attacks. The Sky Blues' trip to Wales represents perhaps their trickiest festive fixture, with Swansea desperate for points as they sit 21st and flirting with the relegation zone.
The playoff battle intensifies
Five matches carry significant implications for the six-team playoff scramble. Middlesbrough (2nd, 33 pts) host Blackburn Rovers knowing victory would consolidate their automatic promotion credentials. Meanwhile, third-placed Millwall face a fascinating clash against in-form Ipswich Town (7th, 28 pts) at The Den.
The early kick-off sees Birmingham City (8th) welcome Derby County (11th) in a meeting between two sleeping giants desperate to reclaim their top-flight status. With just two points separating them, this St Andrew's showdown carries enormous weight.
Former Premier League clubs seek momentum
Three relegated clubs from recent Premier League campaigns will be looking for positive Boxing Day outcomes. Leicester City (16th, 24 pts) host Watford (15th, 24 pts) in a meeting of underperforming sides with identical records. Both expected to challenge for automatic promotion; both have disappointed.
Southampton make the trip to Oxford United's Kassam Stadium, where the Saints will be favourites despite their mediocre 14th-place standing. Oxford have struggled at home this season, winning just twice in nine attempts.
Relegation dogfight continues
At the bottom, Sheffield Wednesday face Hull City in a must-win encounter. The Owls' 18-point deduction for entering administration has left them rock bottom with -10 points, making every match a cup final. Norwich City (23rd, 13 pts) desperately need to beat Charlton Athletic to escape the drop zone.
Full Boxing Day fixture list
12:30 UTC - Birmingham City vs Derby County
13:00 UTC - Millwall vs Ipswich Town
15:00 UTC - Coventry City vs Swansea City | Leicester City vs Watford | Middlesbrough vs Blackburn Rovers | Norwich City vs Charlton Athletic | Oxford United vs Southampton | Portsmouth vs Queens Park Rangers | Sheffield Wednesday vs Hull City | Stoke City vs Preston North End | West Bromwich Albion vs Bristol City
With 18 matches played and 28 still to come, Boxing Day could prove the moment when pretenders are separated from genuine promotion contenders.
